Vietnam’s Heritage Economy: A New Strategic Approach to Sustainable Tourism Development

Published on November 19, 2025

Vietnam appreciates the importance of cultural assets in defining and establishing the country as one of the world’s travel hot spots. The country’s remarkable multi-faceted history, assorted traditions, and exceptional natural scenery, the cultural assets of the nation must be preserved for the people’s national pride and the country’s sustainable growth. In the country, every November 23 is the Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day. The heritage of the country is and continues to be protected and promoted, resulting in the growth of the country’s tourism and economic sustainability.

Vietnam’s Cultural Heritage: A Strategic Resource for Tourism

Cultural heritage is increasingly seen as a key strategic asset in the tourism industry, with the country’s rich heritage contributing significantly to its global tourism appeal. From the ancient temples and sacred sites of the Red River Delta to the lush landscapes of the Central Highlands, Vietnam’s cultural identity is a powerful draw for both domestic and international visitors. According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism (VNAT), 70-80% of international tourists visit Vietnam primarily to experience its cultural and heritage offerings, a clear indication of the growing demand for heritage tourism.

This reflects how cultural heritage is no longer just the preservation of the past but a dynamic resource that fuels tourism, provides economic opportunities, and strengthens national identity. Visitors flock to Vietnam to experience its unique blend of traditional architecture, historical landmarks, local crafts, music, and dance, making heritage tourism an essential component of the country’s tourism sector.

Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day: Fostering National Pride and Global Awareness

November 23, designated as Vietnam Cultural Heritage Day by the Prime Minister, serves as a reminder of the importance of heritage preservation and the need to promote it to both domestic and international audiences. The day is marked by various activities across the country, aimed at fostering a sense of community responsibility and raising public awareness about the value of cultural heritage. These activities not only celebrate Vietnam’s cultural legacy but also contribute to enhancing the global profile of Vietnamese tourism.

The day’s observances encourage both locals and visitors to engage with and appreciate the richness of Vietnamese traditions, fostering a deeper connection with the country’s heritage. As tourism becomes increasingly central to Vietnam’s economy, these efforts to raise awareness play a critical role in supporting sustainable growth in the sector.

UNESCO Recognition: A Boost for Vietnam’s Heritage-Based Tourism

Vietnam’s UNESCO-recognized heritage sites have further solidified its position as a prime destination for cultural tourism. One of the most notable achievements is the recognition of Trang An Scenic Complex in Ninh Binh as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage site, which has had a profound impact on the province’s tourism sector. The inclusion of Trang An has not only boosted the profile of the region but also created new opportunities for the development of heritage-linked tourism products.

Similarly, the Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex of monuments and landscapes, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2025, will undoubtedly bring significant tourism traffic to the Quảng Ninh, Bac Ninh, and Hai Phong regions. These UNESCO honors attract high-spending visitors and serve as a testament to Vietnam’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its cultural heritage in a way that enhances the tourism experience.

In Tuyen Quang province, the Dong Van Karst Plateau Global Geopark was recently named Asia’s Leading Cultural Destination for 2025 by the World Travel Awards. This prestigious recognition reflects the success of the region in preserving its unique cultural heritage and promoting sustainable tourism practices. It also highlights Vietnam’s growing ability to attract international travelers who are looking for authentic, off-the-beaten-path cultural experiences.

Sustainable Tourism and the Rise of Heritage Economy

The concept of the “heritage economy” has emerged as a strategic direction for Vietnam’s tourism development. This approach recognizes that cultural heritage is not only a tool for national identity and pride but also a powerful economic resource. According to Dr. Tran Huu Son, Director of the Institute of Applied Folklore, the concept of a “heritage economy” is integral to achieving sustainable development in Vietnam. This model emphasizes the creation of cultural tourism products that celebrate Vietnam’s history and traditions while ensuring that these assets are preserved for future generations.

Vietnam’s heritage economy is grounded in three key pillars: heritage tourism, agricultural products, and cultural industries. Heritage tourism, in particular, includes spiritual tourism, ancestral-root tourism, and cultural experience tourism, which provide travelers with opportunities to connect with Vietnam’s past and present through immersive experiences.

Tourism products such as visits to the Hung Kings Temple, Mu Cang Chai’s terraced fields, and participation in traditional activities like Xoe Thai dance in Dien Bien offer visitors not just a glimpse of Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry but also the opportunity to actively engage with local customs. These experiences, which go beyond mere observation, allow visitors to participate in rituals, learn traditional crafts, and immerse themselves in local communities, all while contributing to the local economy.

Heritage as a Driver of Economic Development

Vietnam’s growing tourism industry, fueled by its rich cultural heritage, has proven to be a key driver of economic development. With tourism revenues rising steadily and international arrivals increasing each year, the importance of preserving cultural heritage cannot be overstated. In regions like Ninh Binh, Tuyen Quang, and Quang Ninh, the recognition of UNESCO World Heritage sites has not only enhanced the local tourism industry but also generated economic opportunities for local communities through sustainable practices.

As the government continues to implement policies that prioritize cultural heritage preservation, local communities are encouraged to participate in tourism initiatives that promote the unique heritage of their regions. This results in a mutually beneficial relationship where heritage is both a source of pride and a sustainable economic resource. By promoting heritage as an integral part of its tourism strategy, Vietnam has successfully built a tourism economy that respects cultural values while offering diverse, immersive experiences to travelers.

Future Prospects: Balancing Growth with Preservation

Looking ahead, Vietnam faces the challenge of balancing the growth of its tourism sector with the need to protect its cultural and natural heritage. While the demand for cultural tourism continues to rise, it is essential that Vietnam adopts sustainable tourism practices that minimize environmental impact and preserve the integrity of its heritage sites.

The development of a “heritage economy” model provides a roadmap for achieving this balance. By focusing on responsible tourism, local engagement, and the preservation of cultural landmarks, Vietnam can ensure that its rich history remains a central element of the country’s identity, while also driving sustainable economic growth for years to come.

A Sustainable Future Built on Heritage

Vietnam’s focus on the preservation of heritage structures is about more than just keeping the memories of the past alive- it is about building a sustainable future for the legacy of the tourism trade and the socioeconomic upliftment of local communities. The demand for heritage tourism is growing globally and seeking culturally authentic experiences. Vietnam, being one of the destinations internationally, is able to attract and geographically engage travelers from all corners of the globe. Through promotion of heritage shields and economic policies. Vietnam will continue to remain a geographically engaging country, and to advocate economic policies to remain a culture-rich country. The tourism trade will continue to prosper, for the culturally enriching legacy of Vietnam.Vietnam’s Heritage Economy: A Strategic Approach to Sustainable Tourism Development”